Shark Tank investor Robert Herjavec reveals his clever parenting hack for surviving long flights with kids. His key? Pack individual surprise bags filled with new toys and activities to be opened throughout the travel time, preventing boredom. This simple yet effective strategy kept his children entertained on a grueling 15-hour journey, making the family vacation a smoother experience.
The Herjavec Hack: Preparation is Key
Herjavec’s tip revolves around proactive planning and creating a structured, engaging experience for his children. He emphasizes that keeping children occupied and entertained is paramount to a smooth flight. His approach isn’t about silencing them with screens or relying solely on in-flight entertainment. It’s about curating a personalized travel kit filled with activities that cater to their interests and developmental stages. This thoughtful preparation can significantly reduce boredom and potential tantrums, allowing both the children and their parents to have a more pleasant journey. The core of this strategy lies in understanding that a 15-hour flight is an endurance test, and like any endurance event, proper training and supplies are essential.
Building the Ultimate Travel Kit
So, what does a Shark Tank approved travel kit look like? Here’s a breakdown of Herjavec's recommended essentials, adapted for different age groups:
The following table showcases recommended items tailored for varying age groups. Notice how the recommended activities evolve to match the developmental needs of each stage:
Age Group |
Recommended Activities |
Justification |
|---|
Toddlers (1-3 years) |
Board books, stacking cups, soft toys, sticker books (reusable), simple puzzles. |
Focuses on sensory exploration, fine motor skill development, and repetitive play, which keeps them engaged for short bursts. |
Preschoolers (3-5 years) |
Coloring books, crayons, activity books (mazes, dot-to-dots), playdough, small construction toys (e.g., LEGO Duplo). |
Encourages creativity, problem-solving, and fine motor skills. The activities provide structured fun and opportunities for learning. |
School-aged Children (6-12 years) |
Chapter books, comic books, travel-sized board games, card games, drawing pads, puzzle books (Sudoku, crosswords), portable gaming devices (with pre-loaded games). |
Offers more complex cognitive challenges and longer periods of engagement. They can read, strategize, and express their creativity in various ways. |
Teenagers (13+ years) |
Books (physical or e-reader), music (headphones), movies/TV shows (tablet), journals, sketchbooks, downloaded podcasts, portable gaming consoles. |
Provides opportunities for independent entertainment and self-expression. Their interests are more defined, so tailoring the kit to their preferences is crucial. |
Beyond the Kit: Making the Flight an Adventure
While a well-stocked travel kit is crucial, Herjavec's advice extends beyond just packing the right items. He also suggests incorporating these strategies:
Break up the Journey: Divide the flight into manageable segments. Plan activities for each segment, with built-in breaks for stretching, walking around (when safe to do so), and visiting the restroom.
Snacks and Hydration: Pack a variety of healthy snacks and ensure everyone stays hydrated. Hungry and thirsty children are more prone to irritability.
Comfort is King (or Queen): Dress children in comfortable clothing and bring familiar items like a favorite blanket or pillow. This provides a sense of security and helps them relax.
Involve Them in the Process: Let children help pack their own travel kits (within reason). This gives them a sense of ownership and excitement about the trip.
Embrace the Unexpected: Even with the best planning, things can go awry. Be prepared to adapt and stay calm. A little flexibility can go a long way.
The Power of Engagement and Connection
Ultimately, Herjavec's advice underscores the importance of active parental engagement. It's not just about keeping kids quiet; it's about making the flight a memorable and positive experience. Engage with your children, read to them, play games with them, and talk to them about your destination. This creates opportunities for connection and strengthens the bond between parent and child. While technology can be a helpful tool, don't underestimate the power of human interaction.
Applying the Herjavec Principle to Other Travel Situations
The principles behind Herjavec's travel tip aren't limited to air travel. They can be applied to road trips, train journeys, or any situation where children need to be occupied for an extended period. The key is to anticipate their needs, provide engaging activities, and foster a positive and supportive environment. Remember, a little planning and preparation can make all the difference in turning a potentially stressful travel experience into a pleasant and enjoyable one. So, next time you're facing a long journey with your children, channel your inner Robert Herjavec and pack that travel kit with confidence!
